Bombardier signs $7.8 billion record deal as VistaJet orders 56 jets, with options for 86 more
November 27th: VistaJet has made a firm order for 56 private business jets from Bombardier, in a deal valued at $3.1 billion. The private charter company has also taken out options for a further 86 business jets which, if exercised, will value the deal at current list prices at $7.8 billion, making it the largest business aircraft sale in Bombardier's history. Bombardier, which employs 5,500 people in its Belfast operations, will begin delivery of the business jets in 2014.

The firm order comprises 25 Global 5000, 25 Global 6000 and six Global 8000 jets and the agreement also includes options for 40 Global 5000, 40 Global 6000 and six Global 8000 jets.

Bombardier's Belfast operations play a key role in the OEM's business jet division and is responsible for the design and manufacture of a range of parts for the Global aircraft family, including the forward fuselages, engine nacelles and horizontal stabilisers and a spokeperson for Bombardier said that the record deal will help to sustain jobs and secure the long-term future of the Belfast operations.

'By any standard, this is a historic order for Bombardier. It goes without saying that we are thrilled VistaJet has again chosen to grow their fleet with the industry-leading Global family,' said Steve Ridolfi, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft.

'We welcome VistaJet’s ongoing commitment to global coverage within existing and developing new markets. Our Global aircraft are perfect for VistaJet’s business strategy to deliver the ultimate business jet family to all corners of the world,' he added.

Northern Ireland's Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said, 'Bombardier in Northern Ireland plays a major role in the business jet sector, and this multi-million pound contract is a welcome boost for their workforce here. It reflects a confidence in the company and in its staff in Northern Ireland. Bombardier has had a presence in Belfast since 1989 and as our largest private sector employer they are pivotal to the local economy. This order, the largest ever business aircraft order in Bombardier’s history, will help to sustain jobs and secure its long-term future, in addition to benefiting the local aerospace supply chain. Invest Northern Ireland continue to work closely with Bombardier to maximise the wider economic impact of its aircraft programmes here. I wish the company continued success and welcome the contribution their investments are making to Northern Ireland’s prosperity.'

For VistaJet, the order signifies a key part of its expansion plans and ambitions to make business aviation more accessible to the emerging markets. 'This order is the most significant milestone for VistaJet and is a testimony to our successful strategy that focuses on global coverage. Our customers need to fly point-to-point across the globe, and in many instances at short notice, said Thomas Flohr, founder and chairman, VistaJet. 'Whether it’s a direct flight from Los Angeles to Shanghai, from London to Luanda or from Kinshasa to Ulan Bator, we are seamlessly connecting our customers to every corner of the world in unrivalled levels of style and safety. Such customer success allows us to place this historic order and will enable us to base even more brand new aircraft in these dynamic growth markets. I am excited to serve these markets with an unparalleled product both locally and globally. The Bombardier Global aircraft are ideally suited to meet the demanding needs of both jet owner and customer alike,' he said.